Braun & Hogenberg's Civitates Orbis Terrarum or "Cities of the World" was published between 1572 and 1617. Within the six volumes, 531 towns and cities were depicted on 363 plates, providing the reader with the pleasures of travel without the attendant discomforts. Braun wrote in the preface to the third book, "What could be more pleasant than, in one's own home far from all danger, to gaze in these books at the universal form of the earth . . . adorned with the splendor of cities and fortresses and, by looking at pictures and reading the texts accompanying them, to acquire knowledge which could scarcely be had but by long and difficult journeys?" Braun and Hogenberg incorporated an astonishing wealth of information into each scene beyond the city layout and important buildings. The plates provide an impression of the economy and prominent occupations, and illustrate local costumes, manners and customs.

This sheet presents two lovely views of Stockholm. The top view shows the city from the northeast with the cathedral of St Nicholas at center and the Tre Kronor castle at left. The Tre Kronor castle burned down in 1697, and the Stockholm Palace was built in its place in the 18th century. The bottom view is from the southwest, with windmills at left and large galleons protecting the bay. French text on verso.

References: Fussel, pp. 316-319.

Condition: A

A dark impression with some printer's ink residue at top right and bottom center.